Did you know that roughly one third of all break-ins originate at a home’s front door? An unlocked or weak front door can provide burglars with an easy point of access that isn’t likely to raise suspicions among neighbors or passersby. The exterior doors on your home constitute its first line of defense against would-be intruders. Today we’ll help you make sure they’re up to the task.
Be Mindful of Materials
Not all doors are created equal. Your exterior doors should be made of a solid material such as wood, metal or fiberglass. At the very least, exterior doors should have a solid wood core. Metal doors should be outfitted with a lock block so that they cannot be bent open with a car jack.
Ditch the Windows
Decorative windows in doors might look nice, but they can also compromise the security of the door. If you’re in the market for a new door, consider choosing a solid option without a window. If you do have a window in a door, make sure the glass is reinforced and the locks are installed low on the door so burglars can’t reach them through the window.
Reinforce Frames
The strongest door in the world won’t do you much good if it’s installed on a weak frame. Make sure the frame is secured to the wall with 3-inch screws that can reach the stud. Replace stock strike plates with heavy-duty alternatives. The door’s hinges should be hidden, and secured with 3-inch studs as well. You can also reinforce the doorjamb with galvanized steel to make it much harder to break down the door.
Don’t Skimp on Locks
A door with a cheap lock is easier to break into than you might think. All exterior doors should be outfitted with a high-grade deadbolt lock with a throw bolt that is at least 1 inch long. For added security, consider installing an exit-only deadbolt that can only be accessed from the inside of your home.
Concerned about the integrity of your doors? Ivy lea can help! Give us a call to speak with a home improvement contractor today.